The ongoing development surge in Vaughan, fueled by improved transit access and a strategic location, has inspired Cortel Group and 1315955 Ontario Inc. to propose a transformative residential project at 166 Woodstream Boulevard. Situated just west of Martin Grove Road and Highway 7, this ambitious plan involves the construction of four 35-storey mixed-use towers that promise to reshape the local skyline and meet the growing demand for high-density housing.
Project Overview
The proposed development will replace a series of low-rise industrial buildings currently occupying the site. Comprising four separate properties—132, 144, 154, and 166 Woodstream Boulevard—the project covers a total area of 1.6 hectares. Presently, the site features single and double-storey industrial buildings leased by multiple tenants, along with ample surface parking.
Urban Toronto reports that the area surrounding the development is primarily industrial with some commercial properties and recent mid-rise residential developments. The site is conveniently located near numerous parks and community facilities, offering future residents easy access to recreational spaces.
Tower Specifications
Designed by Tregebov Cogan Architects, the quartet of towers will each rise to a height of 115 meters. The development will be divided into two distinct phases, with the east towers slated for the initial phase of construction. Here’s a breakdown of the project’s main features:
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Residential Units: A total of 1,221 residential units will be distributed across the four towers, with each building containing between 304 and 307 units. This density is set to accommodate the growing population in the area, providing modern living spaces with a variety of layouts.
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Podium Design: The towers will be anchored by two 10-storey podiums, separating the complex into dual east and west configurations. These podiums will not only support the high-rises but also serve as hubs for amenities and non-residential spaces.
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Amenities: Residents will have access to 6,954m² of indoor amenities and 2,207m² of outdoor amenities. These will be distributed across the first four floors of the buildings, catering to a range of activities and interests. At the heart of the development, a 1,566m² open space will feature an outdoor amphitheatre, surrounded by landscaped areas and seating spaces, offering a communal area for relaxation and social interaction.
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Retail and Non-Residential Space: The development includes 3,200m² of non-residential space, with 786m² of retail space located at street level in the east building and 733m² in the west building. Additionally, the north segment of the east building’s ground floor is proposed to house 479m² of non-residential space, potentially earmarked for a daycare center, enhancing the family-friendly nature of the complex.
Transportation and Accessibility
The project site is strategically positioned to leverage the transportation infrastructure in the region. It is just south of Highway 7 and within 3 kilometers of Highways 427 and 407, providing easy road access to various parts of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Public transportation options are robust:
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York Region Transit (YRT): The area is well-served by multiple YRT routes, including the Viva Orange Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line, which offers efficient connections to the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre.
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Brampton ZUM: This service provides access to Bramalea GO station, linking residents to the broader regional transit network.
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Future Transit Plans: The development could benefit from the proposed extension of the Highway 7 BRT, which aims to stretch westward to Highway 50 and further into Peel Region. This extension would add 24 kilometers of dedicated bus lanes, improving connectivity between Vaughan and Brampton. Moreover, the Caledon-Vaughan GO Line, as proposed in the Greater Golden Horseshoe Transportation Plan, could provide a direct connection from Woodbridge to Union Station in Toronto, enhancing accessibility for future residents.
Parking and Bicycle Facilities
In response to the anticipated demand for parking and active transportation options, the project will include comprehensive parking and bicycle storage solutions:
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Parking: Two levels of underground parking will accommodate 662 spaces for residents and 138 for visitors. An additional 15 parking spots will be available at grade level.
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Bicycle Parking: To support eco-friendly transportation, the development will provide 760 long-term and 50 short-term bicycle parking spaces, encouraging cycling as a viable commuting option.
The quartet of 35-storey towers proposed at 166 Woodstream Boulevard is set to become a landmark in Vaughan’s urban landscape, representing a significant step forward in the city’s evolution. With a thoughtful mix of residential, retail, and community spaces, and an emphasis on transit-oriented development, this project aims to meet the housing needs of a growing population while enhancing the livability and connectivity of the area. As the project progresses through its planning phases, it will be exciting to see how it shapes the future of Vaughan’s west end, contributing to a dynamic and vibrant community.
